The 2024 UNGA and celebration of the Summit of the Future brought together global leaders, international organizations, and changemakers to discuss solutions for sustainable development, climate action, and the future of global cooperation. SDSN Youth members used this platform to advocate for youth-driven action, emphasizing the critical role young people play in shaping the future. Their participation spanned a series of sessions, side events, and discussions on topics such as entrepreneurship, inclusive development, and innovative solutions for sustainable development. 

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In the days leading up to the Summit of the Future, SDSN Youth presented during SDSN’s Leadership Council about the progress made this year and the importance of youth engagement in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Led by Raquel Armendariz, Program Associate for Networks and Youth, and currently coordinating SDSN Youth, the presentation highlighted key achievements from the four main SDSN Youth initiatives, including capacity-building programs, youth-led research, and successful partnerships, while calling for greater support and investment in empowering youth to lead sustainable development efforts globally.  “Our aim is to prepare the current young and next generations to take over the 2030 Agenda or take over a new global framework that may be developed in the post-2030 era,” she said. 

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Additionally, one of the highlights for SDSN Youth during this week was their involvement in SDSN's High-Level Pre-Summit of the Future Event. This gathering provided an opportunity for youth voices to be heard alongside those of global leaders as participants engaged in conversations about building a more equitable and sustainable world. 

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SDSN Youth participated in the session “A Spotlight on Youth Initiatives” and was represented by Ms. Jingyi Tong, Strategy and Operations Project Lead; Ms. Sanjana Chhantyal, Youth Solutions Program Project Lead; and Mr. Nnaemeka Phil Eke-okocha, Local Pathways Fellowship Project Lead. Under the theme "What does it mean to be a young person in today’s world?" Jingyi, Sanjana, and Phil shed light on the challenges young people encounter when advocating for sustainable development solutions. They also presented ideas aimed at bridging the gap between youth aspirations and the systemic barriers that hinder progress.

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Lastly, SDSN Youth was also present at other side events and initiatives that were celebrated on the sidelines of the Summit of the Future, including the event organized by the Consortium for Sustainable Urbanization (CSU). During this act, Nnaemeka Phil Eke-okocha took the stage to share why the Summit of the Future is so important and how the work of the Local Pathways Fellowship is advancing toward the solutions of the future. Phil was accompanied by several alumni fellows who also had the chance to take the stage and share their experience in sustainable urban development and how young people can gain experience in this sector.  

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By participating in the 2024 UNGA-related events, SDSN Youth reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young leaders, amplifying their voices on the global stage, and fostering collaboration to achieve the SDGs. Their engagement in these important dialogues highlights the growing recognition of youth as essential partners in the pursuit of a sustainable and inclusive future.

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As the newly adopted “Pact of the Future” and “Declaration for Future Generations” sparks conversations and actions among key stakeholders to keep youth as essential actors in the international arena, the mobilization efforts by SDSN Youth serves as a reminder that young people are not just future leaders—they are leaders today, driving meaningful change in communities around the world.

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